Online Games and Video Game Consoles

How can I make it safer?

When initially setting up any video game console, make sure to activate any parental controls and create passwords for the parental control features. These features can help you control online access by using the block and/or restrict features available.
Ensure your child only plays games with approved individuals (i.e. family and offline friends) by using features such as Nintendo's “Friend Code” or Xbox and PlayStation Network’s “buddy list” options.
Know your child's login information.
When your child begins playing a new game, assist her/him with the creation of her/his online profile. Only fill in the necessary information, leaving out identifying or revealing information.
Explore the games your child plays and make sure you understand the rating system used for games in order to determine if they are age-appropriate. Some questions you might want to ask include:
- Is there a chat component?
- Is the game moderated?
- Are avatars used?
- Does it contain sexually explicit or violent material?
- Is there somewhere where I can report inappropriate activity?
- Does the game provide more options for older players (and has your child misrepresented their age to get more options)?
Monitor your child's text and voice chat while they are playing.
Seek games that offer the ability to block or restrict individuals who can play with your child and allow you to mute other individuals from chatting with your child.

Be involved and show interest in the games your child plays. If possible play the game with your child.

Reinforce the idea that not everyone is who they say they are online. People can pretend to be older or younger than they actually are.
Explain to your child that s/he should trust her/his instincts and block or ignore someone if they ask questions online that seem "weird" (e.g. questions about puberty, sex, etc.).
Talk to your child about friendship: what it is and isn't. Explain that online chatting needs to be adult-supervised.
Explain to your child that it's illegal to threaten someone, and that s/he should tell a safe adult if s/he is ever threatened online.